An exquisite Grand Tour gold ring set with a neoclassical sardonyx cameo. Vase.

Mounted in a refined chiseled frame with a vegetal pattern, this rare and unusual cameo depicts a decorated vase. Inspired by the models of Classical Antiquity, this luxuruous vessel has an elongated shape with a rounded mouth and rimmed body. The exceptional rendering volumes gives an illusion of depth. The upper part of the body is decorated with two theatrical masks arranged symmetrically next, in the center, the thyrsus. The lower part of the vase is narrowed, such as the ancient bronze or marble vase models.  
The left theatrical mask is characterized by youthful features, and to mark the antagonism, the right one shows an old character— pure allegory of Time and Life.
Meanwhile, the thyrsus refers to the Dionysian sphere.
Beautiful, well-balanced and finely engraved composition on this two-layer sardonyx with a milky white background. The frame can be dated to the Napoleonic era.